Fiber orientation in the processing of polymer composites

Abstract

We review the modeling and simulation of fiber orientation during injection molding processes of short fiber reinforced thermoplastics. Generally, a group of fibers are described in terms of probability distribution function or orientation tensor. Various closure approximation models to express higher order tensor in terms of lower order tensors are reviewed. Rheology of fiber suspensions, multiple fiber-fiber interaction and numerical technique for the prediction of fiber orientation are also considered for concentrated situations.